Not all sex toys are created equal when it comes to safety and longevity. The material your toy is made from affects everything from how it feels, how easy it is to clean, how long it lasts, and whether it’s truly body-safe for regular use.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common materials you’ll see — especially in dildos, butt plugs, prostate massagers, and male strokers.
Platinum-Cured (Medical-Grade) Silicone is one of the best materials available — you’ll find many options made from it across our butt plugs, dildos, and prostate massagers.
This is the gold standard for insertable toys.
- Non-porous (bacteria can’t hide on the surface)
- Hypoallergenic and free from phthalates
- Extremely durable (often 5–10+ years with proper care)
- Can often be boiled or run through the dishwasher (top rack) for sterilization
- Feels luxurious and warms naturally to body temperature
Tin-cured silicone Generally lower quality and less stable for intimate use. Always look for “platinum-cured” or “medical-grade” on the product description.
TPE / TPR (Thermoplastic Elastomer) Very common in male strokers and some softer toys. Pros: Affordable, soft and realistic skin-like feel, flexible. Cons: Porous (microscopic holes can trap bacteria and fluids even after washing), degrades faster (often 1–3 years), and some formulations may contain or off-gas unwanted chemicals.
TPE strokers are popular because they feel amazing, but they require more careful maintenance. Many users treat them as replaceable every 12–18 months with heavy use. For extra safety (especially if sharing or concerned about bacteria), use a condom with your stroker or insertable.
Other Body-Safe Options
- Borosilicate glass and surgical-grade stainless steel: Non-porous, easy to sterilize, great for temperature play, and last forever.
- ABS plastic (hard plastic): Excellent for rigid parts and handles; non-porous when properly finished.
Materials to Avoid Jelly, PVC, and cheap “rubber” blends often contain phthalates and are highly porous. They can leach chemicals and become unsafe quickly. If a toy has a strong chemical smell or feels overly sticky out of the box, it’s usually a red flag.
PlayWell’s Approach Pairing the right material with the right lubricant makes a noticeable difference in both safety and pleasure. We prioritize platinum-cured silicone for insertables and clearly label the materials in our strokers and masturbators so you always know what you’re getting. We also provide care instructions for every product.
Quick Decision Guide
- Want maximum safety + longevity for anal/prostate play? → Platinum silicone
- Want the softest, most realistic stroker feel on a budget? → Quality TPE (with proper care)
- Want something easy to sterilize and share? → Glass or steel
Understanding materials helps you choose toys that feel incredible and stay safe for years of play.
Explore our curated collection of body-safe toys at PlayWellStore.com.
